Palmdale council approves placing directly elected mayor question on November ballot amid divided public comment

The Palmdale City Council voted 4–1 on July 7 to place a ballot measure before voters asking whether the city should establish a directly elected, at‑large mayor, with the first such election to follow the process outlined in the proposed ordinance.

City staff told the council the measure would ask voters whether “the ordinance establishing the office of a directly elected mayor” should be adopted; if voters approve, the council would be required to adopt the ordinance and schedule the mayoral election as prescribed in the measure. City Attorney staff advised that the measure itself would obligate the city to enact the ordinance if the ballot question passes.

Supporters at the meeting urged the council to return the mayoral selection to voters to create a single, citywide voice for regional negotiations and accountability. David Acres of the Palmdale Freedom Coalition said the current rotating system produced “constant squabbling” and urged the council to “bring the position of mayor back to the people.” Several other residents testified in favor, saying a directly elected mayor would provide visibility and clearer leadership on citywide issues.

Opponents, including voting‑rights advocates and several residents, warned the change could revive legal challenges under California election law. One commenter cautioned that returning to an at‑large mayor could worsen racially polarized voting patterns and expose the city to litigation; others argued the change could favor better‑funded candidates. Council members also debated the projected cost of placing the advisory ordinance question on the ballot, which staff estimated in the low six figures.

Councilmembers who supported placing the question said the city is divided on the issue and the only definitive way to settle it is to let voters decide. The measure will appear on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot; if it passes, the city would adopt the ordinance specified in the ballot materials and set the mayoral election per the ordinance’s timetable.

The council made no changes to the district structure as part of the action; staff noted future redistricting or Fair Maps Act adjustments would be handled as required by law.

Next steps: the measure will be placed on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot for voter consideration. If approved by voters, the city will proceed to adopt the ordinance and schedule the election as provided in that ordinance.